Golfers play for the love of horses

Equine rescue group holds tourney

MILTON, Ga. – Dozens of horse lovers came out June 7 to show their support of local rescue group, “For the Love of A Horse.”

The horse nonprofit held their annual “Fore the Love of A Horse” golf outing and auction at the Trophy Club of Atlanta, with more than 60 golfers taking part, over double the numbers from last year, the inaugural year.

“I started to cry when I walked out there and saw all the carts lined up,” said Miaka Palmieri, president of the group.

The day-long event raised $18,000 for the group.

For the Love of A Horse is based out of Roswell, where they treat injured or elderly horses that would otherwise be put down. It also owns and cares for five horses that are used as therapy animals for the elderly.

“We help people who own the animals to keep them,” said Palmieri. “If you have the choice between putting down the animal or putting food on your table, we will help.”

Items such as a behind-the-scenes tour for four people at the Aquarium or a stay at the Lake Lanier resort were for auction. Palmer Dodge sponsored many of the holes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were provided by Chick Fil A, Roasters of Alpharetta and 'Cue BBQ respectively.

Allan Jessie, of Cherokee Feed and Seed as well as the North Fulton location, offered to provide hay and feed for all the horse under the group's care for their entire life, a move that brought on tears from the all-volunteer members.

“They are taking animals nobody else takes and they take care of them,” said Jessie. “We can help, we want to help. It's a small token for us to give product. They do all the hard work.”

Palmieri and her fellow volunteers were moved by Jesse's donation.

“It's easy to get discouraged,” said Palmieri. “It's things like that that lift you up.”

For more information on For the Love of A Horse, visit www.fortheloveofahorse.org.